Our Place in the Universe is an astronomy course for those who want to know more about this fascinating subject. Over ten weeks you can take the first steps to understand the mysteries of the Cosmos.
Our place in the Universe starts on Earth...(Image credit: NASA)
In September I will be once again presenting my popular beginneròÀÙs astronomy course.ˆà Entitled Our Place in the Universe this twenty hour course presented over ten weeks describes in depth our current knowledge of the Universe and the amazing objects it contains. It follows human understanding from prehistoric times to the latest discoveries from spacecraft. The course is aimed at those new to the field and is completely non-mathematical and no prior knowledge is required. I try to keep the tone as light as possible and the atmosphere is very informal. If you have ever wanted to take a first step into the world of astronomy, this is the course is for you.
... moves out through the Solar System...(Image credit:NASA)
Over the ten weeks the class will discover fascinating topics including:
- What can we see in the sky throughout the year
- Myths and legends of the constellations
- The Sun, Earth and Moon
- Our neighbours in space: Mercury, Venus and Mars
- The giant planets, comets and asteroids
- The lives of the stars
- Black holes, pulsars and other strange objects
- The expanding Universe
- Are we alone in the Universe?
...all the way to the edge of the Universe! (Image credit: ESO/M. Kornmesser)
This course is presented at Queens University School of Education . Classes will be held on Tuesdays between 10am and noon starting on 27 September. If are planning to attend, you have to enrol through QUB School of Education through their online booking form or by completing the form in the Autumn 2011/Winter 2012 Prospectus which is available from the School and public libraries.
I am really looking forward to presenting this course as we always have a lot of fun. Why not come along and explore the Universe with me?
Very good web site. Would like to join the QUB Course. Dennis Johnston
Is this course still running? Please and thank you
Dear Jacqui, yes, it returns in late September 2016. In the meantime, I’m starting a shorter course Stargazing the Night Sky on 26 April (see this link). It is is listed under the science tab at this link to QUB School of Education.
I hope this has helped you, if you need to find out anything else please call the Planetarium.